Mission unaccomplished – IV: Iran’s missile arsenal the US could neither destroy nor negotiate away

The CIA reports Iran retains **70% of its missile arsenal** despite years of US-led strikes and sanctions, according to Yahoo. Coverage highlights the expansion of Iran’s **Shahed drone family**, with new variants documented in a EurAsian Times report. A Middle East Institute analysis proposes a **post-war verification model** for monitoring Iran’s arsenal, while NewsNation examines the range of Iran’s attack drones and their potential to reach the US West Coast.

Outlets emphasize the **limits of US military and diplomatic strategies** in dismantling Iran’s missile program. PressTV frames the situation as a **failure of US efforts**, while the CIA’s assessment underscores the persistence of Iran’s capabilities. The Middle East Institute’s proposal signals a shift toward **verification frameworks** rather than outright elimination.

Watch for developments on **verification mechanisms** and whether Iran’s drone and missile advancements will prompt new US responses. Coverage may also focus on **regional tensions** if Iran’s expanded arsenal alters deterrence dynamics in the Middle East.